The ALMA Roots Behind Wave Gelato

When people talk about the best culinary schools in the world, ALMA – La Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana is always at the top of the list. Located just outside Parma, in the heart of Italy’s food valley, ALMA is known for forming the next generation of chefs, pastry masters, and artisans of taste. The school teaches much more than cooking techniques: it instills discipline, precision, creativity, and a deep respect for tradition — values that students carry with them throughout their careers.

One of those students was Cristian, now gelato maestro and co-founder of Wave Gelato, alongside Biagio. Cristian graduated from ALMA a decade ago, laying the foundation for a journey that would take him across the world — from Italy to the UK and Australia — working in bakeries and fine dining kitchens, constantly refining his craft. What he brought back wasn’t just experience, but a mindset: a commitment to detail, quality, and innovation.

Today, those same principles are part of what makes Wave Gelato unique. Together, Cristian and Biagio have built a business where tradition meets creativity, and where every batch of gelato is made with care, curiosity, and respect for ingredients. Cristian’s time at ALMA plays a big role in shaping the standards of excellence that define Wave, but it's the combined vision and teamwork of both founders that make it what it is: a modern gelato lab rooted in authenticity, driven by passion, and obsessed with flavour.